Kitchen Basics

14 Life-Changing Slow Cooker Hacks

Updated on February 12, 2018 by Claudia McNeilly

Slow cookers tend to conjure up images of soup, stew and
chili — but this popular kitchen tool has a mecca of multi-purpose uses. From
chewy triple chocolate brownies to decadent lasagna, these brilliant hacks will
help you get the most out of your slow cooker, every time.

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Make Cleanup Easy with Crockpot Liners

<p>Use throwaway crockpot liners to prevent baked-on messes and cut down on cleanup time. They're made from a special nylon, heat-resistant material that's designed to withstand high heat.</p>
<p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-bean-and-barley-soup/17470/"><strong>Slow Cooker Bean and Barley Soup<strong></a></p>

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Get Rid of Stains and Discolouration

<p>Classic slow cooker recipes like chili can cause stains and discolouration to occur. Get your slow cooker looking brand new again with a simple solution of white vinegar and baking soda.</p>
<p>Get the <strong><a href="http://lifeshouldcostless.com/2012/12/lifechanging-healthy-way-to-clean-that.html" target="_blank">full instructions here</a></strong></p>

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Cook and Entertain, Simultaneously

<p>Sweet and savoury party mix is toasted to perfection in the slow cooker. The low and slow cooking method ensures each and every bite is as evenly crisp and delicious as the last. Plus, you'll be able to greet your party guests while the snacks are slow cooking away.</p>
<p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/party-mix/17833/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Party Mix</strong></a></p>

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Add Pasta, Cooked Beans and Dairy Last

<p>Ingredients like pasta and cooked beans can turn mushy in the slow cooker if they are left unattended for too long, and dairy can curdle if it spends too much time over high heat. Always add these ingredients last to heat through without turning to mush.</p>

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Make Dessert

<p>This gooey brownie cake takes almost no time to prepare, and gives you the excuse to use your slow cooker for something sweet.</p>
<p>Try making some of our favourite <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/life-changing-slow-cooker-dessert-recipes/" target="_blank"><strong>slow cooker dessert recipes</strong></a></p>

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Use a Plug-In Attachment for Perfect Results

<p>Despite the low cooking temperature, it's possible to overcook recipes in the slow cooker. Control cooking time and temperature by investing in a plug-in attachment if your slow-cooker does not have a programmable dial to eliminate guess work and ensure mouthwatering results.</p>

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Cook Bread

<p>Slow cookers are a great way to make hearty breads like corn bread, if you ever find yourself short on oven space. This would be a great option during the holidays when your oven is packed to the brim.</p>
<p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-butternut-squash-cornbread/17154/" target="_blank">Slow Cooker Cornbread</a></strong></p>

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Keep Food Warm

<p>Use your slow cooker as a DIY heating station by plugging it in and placing it on the dinner table or where food is being served. This method is especially helpful if you plan on feeding a crowd and are worried about food getting cold before it’s ready to be eaten.</p>

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Don't Touch That Lid!

<p>Every time you remove the lid from your slow cooker, you can add up to 30 minutes of cooking time to your recipe, due to escaped heat. Unless a recipe calls for ingredients to be added mid-way through, always keep the lid of your slow-cooker on when it's in use.</p>

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Brown Meats On the Stovetop to Add Flavour

<p>Brown meats over high heat on the stovetop before cooking in the slow cooker for a dose of added caramelized flavour, capable of taking any recipe from good to great.</p>

Cook Large Pieces of Meat

<p>Slow cookers are great for cooking large pieces of meat with minimal fuss, like finger-licking ribs. This recipe is slow-cooked until tender and finished on the grill with a sticky sauce.</p>
<p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-barbecue-ribs/20167/" target="_blank">Slow Cooker Barbecue Ribs</a></strong></p>

Ricardo Cuisine

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Make Baked Pasta Dishes

<p>Slow cooker lasagna (or other cheesy baked pastas) is a fantastic, low-fuss way to make this hearty Italian dish, and keep it hot if you’re cooking for a crowd.</p>
<p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-lasagna/19645/" target="_blank">Ricardo's Slow Cooker Lasagna</a></strong></p>